Our research shows approximately 66% of motorcycle accidents are caused by car drivers. In other words, roughly two out of every three multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes happen because a car or truck driver fails to yield, misjudges distance, or simply does not see the motorcycle.
Motorcycle accidents remain a significant concern on roads worldwide, with severe consequences for riders involved. Understanding the factors that contribute to these accidents is crucial for improving safety measures and reducing fatalities.
One critical aspect of motorcycle crash analysis is determining the role that cars play in causing these incidents.
In this study, we reviewed recent motorcycle accident data to determine the percentage of motorcycle crashes caused by cars, analyze the common factors involved, and provide insights to improve motorcycle safety and reduce fatalities on the road.
What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents Are Caused by Cars?
Based on national and Nevada data, about two-thirds of motorcycle crashes involving another vehicle are caused by the car driver. Official studies, including NHTSA analyses, show roughly 66% of multi-vehicle motorcycle accidents are caused by cars that failed to yield or recognize motorcycles. In short, cars are responsible for the majority of serious motorcycle collisions.
Most motorcycle crashes in the United States involve another vehicle, and most often that vehicle is a passenger car. National studies show that about three-quarters of motorcycle accidents involve a collision with another vehicle, and in roughly two-thirds of those crashes, the car driver is at fault. The most common causes are drivers failing to yield, making unsafe left turns, or overlooking motorcycles in their blind spots.
This danger is even clearer when we look at recent numbers in Nevada. In 2024, the state saw 82 motorcyclist deaths, a sharp increase from the year before. Motorcyclists made up nearly 20% of all traffic fatalities statewide, despite motorcycles representing less than 3% of registered vehicles. Clark County, which includes Las Vegas, was the hardest hit—recording 61 rider deaths in 2024, the highest ever for the area.
Early data from 2025 shows the trend is continuing. By midyear, 29 motorcycle fatalities had already been recorded statewide, with 22 of them in Las Vegas alone. Law enforcement officials confirm that in the majority of these deadly crashes, it was a car driver’s mistake—most often a failure to yield—that triggered the collision.
These numbers underline a harsh reality our motorcycle accident attorneys know all too well: when cars and motorcycles collide, the motorcyclist almost always pays the highest price.
Key Findings: Car vs Motorcycle Collision Statistics for 2025
Motorcycle accidents have much more serious outcomes than car crashes. When you’re on a motorcycle, you don’t have the metal frame, airbags, and crumple zones that protect car occupants.
This lack of protection means motorcyclists face a much higher risk of death or severe injury in any collision. The difference is dramatic when comparing what happens to people in cars versus people on motorcycles during similar crashes.
| Factor | Motorcycles | Cars |
| Injury Severity | Usually severe or fatal | Often minor to moderate |
| Protection Level | Helmet and gear only | Full vehicle structure |
| Visibility | Small and hard to see | Large and obvious |
| Stopping Distance | Often shorter | Usually longer |
Vehicle miles traveled, or VMT, is how safety experts measure accident risk. This means they look at how many accidents happen per mile driven, which gives a fairer comparison between different types of vehicles.
The data shows that riding a motorcycle is inherently more dangerous than driving a car. However, most of this danger comes from other drivers, not from the motorcycle riders themselves.
How Do Cars Most Commonly Cause Motorcycle Accidents?
Car drivers cause motorcycle accidents in predictable ways. Learning about these common scenarios can help you understand how these crashes happen and why they’re usually the car driver’s fault.
The three most dangerous situations for motorcyclists all involve car drivers who fail to properly see or account for motorcycles on the road.
Cars Making Left Turns Into Motorcycles
Left-turn accidents in Las Vegas are the deadliest situation for motorcycle riders. This happens when a car turns left across traffic and drives directly into the path of an oncoming motorcycle.
The turning driver either doesn’t see the motorcycle at all or badly misjudges how fast it’s traveling. Motorcycles can appear to be moving slower than they actually are because of their smaller size.
These crashes often happen at intersections where the car has a green light to turn left but must yield to oncoming traffic. The driver looks for cars but fails to notice the motorcycle until it’s too late to avoid a collision.
Failure to Check Blind Spots
Blind spot accidents happen when cars change lanes without seeing a motorcycle traveling alongside them. A blind spot is the area around your car that you can’t see in your mirrors or by looking over your shoulder.
Motorcycles are narrow enough to hide completely in a car’s blind spot. When a driver changes lanes, they might check their mirrors but still miss seeing the motorcycle.
These accidents are particularly dangerous because they often happen at highway speeds. The motorcycle rider has little time to react when a car suddenly moves into their lane.
Following Too Closely and Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes in Las Vegas happen when cars follow motorcycles too closely and can’t stop in time. Motorcycles can often brake much faster than cars, especially in emergency situations.
When a car driver isn’t paying attention or following too closely, they might not realize the motorcycle ahead has stopped or slowed down. By the time they hit their brakes, it’s too late to avoid hitting the rider.
These crashes can throw the motorcyclist off their bike and into traffic, making them extremely dangerous even at lower speeds.
Nevada and Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Data
Nevada presents unique challenges for motorcycle safety. The state’s year-round riding weather means more motorcycles on the road throughout all seasons, unlike states where winter weather keeps riders off the streets.
Las Vegas adds another layer of complexity with its constant stream of tourist traffic. Many drivers visiting the city are unfamiliar with local roads and traffic patterns, making their behavior unpredictable.
- Tourist drivers: Visitors often drive slowly, make sudden stops, or change lanes unexpectedly while looking for hotels and attractions
- Year-round riding: Nevada’s climate means motorcycles share the road with cars twelve months a year
- High-speed roads: The most dangerous roads in Las Vegas like I-15 and the 215 Beltway have heavy traffic and frequent lane changes
- Entertainment districts: Areas like the Strip have dense traffic with drivers focused on sights rather than other vehicles
Nevada’s helmet law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets, regardless of age. This means adult riders can choose whether to wear protective gear, which affects injury severity when accidents do happen.
At Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas, we’ve seen how these local factors contribute to serious motorcycle accidents throughout the valley. Our experience with these cases shows the importance of understanding both traffic patterns and Nevada law.
Common Types of Injuries Caused by Cars
Car-caused motorcycle accidents often result in a variety of serious injuries due to the lack of protection motorcycles offer. Understanding these common injuries can help riders recognize the risks and the importance of safety measures.
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Road rash and severe abrasions
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Chest and abdominal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Facial injuries
- Limb amputations
- Whiplash and neck injuries
How Motorcycle Safety Can Prevent Severe Injuries or Death
Motorcycle safety plays a critical role in reducing the severity of injuries or fatalities in motorcycle accidents. Implementing proper safety measures, such as wearing helmets and protective gear, following traffic laws, and practicing defensive riding, can greatly improve rider safety and outcomes after a crash.
Proper Helmet Use
Wearing a helmet is the single most effective way to protect yourself from severe head injuries or death in a motorcycle accident. Helmets absorb impact forces and reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury.
Make sure your helmet meets safety standards and fits snugly. Always buckle the chin strap securely before riding. Consistent helmet use has been proven to save lives and reduce injury severity.
Defensive Riding Techniques
Defensive riding means anticipating potential hazards and being prepared to react safely. Stay alert, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid riding in other drivers’ blind spots.
Use your mirrors frequently and scan the road ahead for obstacles. Defensive riding reduces the likelihood of collisions caused by other drivers’ errors.
Obeying Traffic Laws
Following traffic laws, including speed limits and signaling turns, helps create predictable behavior on the road. Predictability reduces confusion and the risk of accidents.
Never run red lights or weave between lanes. Abiding by the rules of the road not only protects you but also fosters respect from other drivers.
Who Is At Fault in Car vs Motorcycle Crashes?
Determining fault in car versus motorcycle accidents is a critical step in the legal and insurance process. Understanding common causes and behaviors that lead to these crashes can help clarify liability and protect your rights.
Common reasons car drivers are found at fault in motorcycle accidents include:
- Left-turn violations: Drivers making left turns often fail to see oncoming motorcycles or misjudge their speed, leading to collisions.
- Failure to check blind spots: Motorcycles can easily hide in a car’s blind spots, causing accidents when drivers change lanes without proper checks.
- Following too closely: Cars tailgating motorcycles may not stop in time, resulting in rear-end collisions.
- Distracted driving: Drivers distracted by phones, passengers, or other factors may not notice motorcycles on the road.
- Failure to yield right-of-way: Drivers disregarding traffic signals or signs can cause crashes by not yielding to motorcycles.
- Opening car doors without caution: Parked vehicle drivers opening doors without checking for approaching motorcycles can cause dooring accidents.
- Speeding and impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or speeding increases the risk of causing a motorcycle crash.
- Improper lane changes: Unsafe lane changes by car drivers can lead to sideswipe collisions with motorcycles.
Your Legal Rights After a Car Causes Your Motorcycle Accident
After a car hits your motorcycle, you have specific legal rights under Nevada law. Understanding these rights helps you take the right steps to protect your ability to get fair compensation for your injuries.
Your first priority should always be getting medical attention, even if you think your injuries are minor. Adrenaline can mask common motorcycle injuries in Las Vegas, and some problems don’t show symptoms right away.
Once you’ve addressed immediate medical needs, understanding what to do after a motorcycle accident helps protect your legal rights:
- Document everything: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and damage to your motorcycle and gear
- Get witness information: Ask anyone who saw the accident for their contact information and a brief statement
- Obtain the police report: Make sure officers respond to the scene and file an official report
- Preserve evidence: Keep your damaged helmet, clothing, and motorcycle parts as proof of the impact
- Avoid admitting fault: Don’t apologize or say anything that could be interpreted as accepting blame
- Contact an attorney: Get legal advice before talking to insurance companies about your claim
Motorcycle accident cases are often more complex than regular car accident claims. Insurance companies sometimes have bias against motorcycle riders, assuming they were speeding or driving recklessly.
Having an experienced attorney helps level the playing field. At Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas, Our team has extensive experience representing injury victims and understands how to handle the unique challenges of motorcycle accident cases.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win your case. This allows you to get quality legal representation without worrying about upfront costs while you’re recovering from your injuries.
Get a Free Consultation with a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident caused by a car, don’t wait to get the legal help you need.
At Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas, we work diligently to protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Our experienced injury attorneys understand the complexities of motorcycle accident cases and are committed to guiding you through every step of the process. Whether you have questions about fault, insurance claims, or filing a lawsuit, we are here to provide clear, compassionate support.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Percentage of Multi-Vehicle Motorcycle Accidents Are the Car Driver’s Fault?
In crashes involving both a motorcycle and a car, it is common for the car driver to violate the motorcycle’s right-of-way, often leading to serious accidents. Left-turn violations are the most common cause of these accidents.
Where Do Most Fatal Motorcycle vs Car Accidents Happen?
Most deadly motorcycle accidents occur at intersections in urban areas. These locations are dangerous because of left-turning vehicles and the high volume of conflicting traffic movements.
Can I Still Get Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault for My Motorcycle Accident?
Yes, you can still recover compensation in Nevada as long as you’re found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Nevada?
Nevada’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s important to start the legal process much sooner to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
What Should I Do if the Insurance Company Offers Me a Settlement Right After My Motorcycle Accident?
Don’t accept any settlement offer without consulting an attorney first. Early offers are often much lower than what your case is actually worth, and accepting one prevents you from seeking additional compensation later.
